Plank, the most recognizable name and the inspiration for Buddy Ryan's 46 defense, was fired. The other three assistants didn't have their expired contracts renewed.

Plank helped secondary coach Dennis Thurman. DeFilippo, who coached the Oakland Raiders' quarterbacks for two seasons before joining the Jets, was an underling to quarterbacks coach Matt Cavanaugh. Jets offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer also is an accomplished QB guru.

O'Dea became redundant last year, when venerable special-teams coordinator Mike Westhoff returned from a brief retirement driven by medical issues. The Jets also have special-teams assistant Ben Kotwica.

Quality control coaches are tantamount to entry-level assistants. Smith had been with the Jets three seasons in that capacity.

Also leaving is pass-rushing consultant Chuck Smith, whom outside linebacker Clavin Pace credited with his big season. The former Atlanta Falcons defensive end helped out in training camp and was asked to stick around. He's leaving to become the University of Tennessee's defensive line coach.